Akufo-Addo Hails Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II as “Great Figure of Unity” in Tribute
Former President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has paid tribute to His Majesty Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II, Overlord of the Dagbon Kingdom, following the announcement of his passing by the Gbewaa Palace in Yendi.
In a Facebook post on Monday, the former President described the late Yaa-Naa as “a great figure of unity, strength and the enduring legacy of a proud and dignified people,” adding that he joins the illustrious list of Dagbon royals who have enabled the steady progress of Dagbon for over three centuries.
Akufo-Addo recalled the pivotal role the late Overlord played in resolving what was known for years as the “Dagbon Crises.”
He noted that when Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II was then Chief of Savelugu, known as Yoo-Naa, he was central to the peace process which eventually culminated in his enskinment as Yaa-Naa during Akufo-Addo’s tenure as President.
The former President said he and the two younger princes at the time accepted his advice towards the implementation of what he called “the special solution to the special circumstances of the Dagbon Kingdom.”
The former President also recounted being honoured by the late Overlord with the title “Naa Abudani” in 2019 in recognition of his efforts toward the reconciliation process in Dagbon.
He said the honour was conferred when he joined the Yaa-Naa in Yendi to celebrate the 1st Damba Festival following his enskinment, and described it as an honour he will always treasure.
According to Akufo-Addo, the reign of Yaa-Naa Mahama Abukari II was marked by “a rapid resurgence of dignity, pride, unity and cultural renaissance across Dagbon.”
He urged the Chiefs, kingmakers and elders of Dagbon to ensure the late King’s legacy is cemented by ensuring a smooth and peaceful transition in line with the time-tested customs and traditions of Dagbon.
He noted with reassurance that a regent has already been successfully enskinned, and called on all well-meaning Ghanaians to support the regent and the people of Dagbon during this difficult period.
Akufo-Addo and his wife, Rebecca, extended their deepest sympathies and condolences to the family of the late Yaa-Naa, the Chiefs, elders and the people of Dagbon.
He prayed that his soul rests in perfect peace in the bosom of the Almighty until the Last Day of the Resurrection when “we shall all meet again.”
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